Artichoke Gros Vert de Laon - Ferme de Sainte Marthe seeds - Cynara scolymus

The Gros Vert de Laon Artichoke is a hardy variety, resistant to cold, which offers a delicate flavour. This perennial vegetable plant is cultivated for its rounded, very large-sized heads, formed by ovate, fleshy scales at the base (the leaves) and its floral receptacle, the artichoke heart. Sowing from February to March for a harvest 6 to 7 months later.

The artichoke is a perennial vegetable plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It belongs to the genus Cynara, like the Cardoon - and the Thistle. Known about by the Greeks and Romans since antiquity, it was introduced in France around the 15th century.

It is a plant that, although perennial, is often cultivated for two or three years. It has an upright stem that can reach a height of 2 metres (7 feet) and large, deeply cut leaves. It is its inflorescence, or rather its flower bud, that is harvested before the flower develops and is consumed.

Coluche said about artichokes: "It's the only dish that when you finish eating, you have more on your plate than when you started!". This is neither entirely false nor entirely true because, in artichokes, everything is edible, or almost everything: the heart, with vinaigrette, the base of the leaves, but also the leaf stalks which, when blanched, can be consumed like those of the cardoon.

The artichoke has anti-anemic, detoxifying, stimulating and tonic properties, and contains vitamins A, B1, B2, C. It has a beneficial effect on the liver.

In the garden, the Artichoke thrives in rich, well-draining soil. As a true Mediterranean plant, its worst enemies are humidity and frost. Therefore it will do best in mild climates and preferably on a raised bed.

Harvest and storage: The harvest of the flower buds is done gradually as needed and as they develop, every year. They should be harvested before the central scales separate and consumed as soon as possible.

Gardener's tip: In regions with harsh winters, protect your plants with a thick layer of dry leaves. Monitor your plants closely, as aphids love them!